Michigan House Bill HB5258

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 10/25/23

Caption

Elections: candidates; candidates to file applicable reports to be certified by the board of election commissioners; require. Amends sec. 558 of 1954 PA 116 (MCL 168.558).

Impact

Enacting this bill will tighten regulations surrounding the nomination process for candidates, thereby ensuring better compliance with election laws. The requirement for an affidavit of identity aims to streamline the verification process for candidates and prevent fraudulent nominations. It aims to enhance the transparency and integrity of the election process, ensuring that all candidates meet the necessary qualifications for the offices they wish to pursue. Furthermore, candidates will need to provide a signed statement confirming that they have fulfilled all necessary financial disclosures under the Michigan campaign finance act, which can help mitigate potential misconduct related to campaign financing.

Summary

House Bill 5258 aims to amend the Michigan election law, specifically targeting the procedures surrounding the filing of candidate nomination materials. This amends Section 558 of the 1954 Public Act 116, which governs the electoral process for various offices including federal, state, and local positions. The bill mandates that candidates must file two copies of an affidavit of identity, which includes essential details such as their name, residential address, and the office they seek. Additionally, it specifies that candidates nominated at party conventions must submit their affidavits within one business day to the Secretary of State. However, this requirement does not apply to presidential candidates.

Contention

There may be some contention surrounding the provisions of this bill. Proponents argue that making these identification safeguards mandatory will protect the electoral process from fraud and misrepresentation. On the other hand, critics might raise concerns that imposing additional requirements on candidates could deter qualified individuals from running for office, particularly those from diverse or less-resourced backgrounds. The bill's strict timeline for affidavit submissions post-nomination could also be seen as a burden by candidates who may require more time to comply with all legal obligations before appearing on the ballot.